Connecting communities through digital skills, broadband initiatives

Extension programs at land-grant universities address community needs nationwide by expanding digital infrastructure, supporting economic development and building technology skills. These efforts strengthen educational connections and learning opportunities for families, youths and older adults.

Here are a few examples of that work:

• Illinois Extension is partnering statewide to expand broadband planning, funding and adoption. Since 2020, these efforts have leveraged $228 million for infrastructure, supported planning in 60 counties, reached more than 21,000 residents through training and webinars and strengthened broadband capacity to support telehealth, education, workforce development and economic growth across Illinois.
  University of Illinois Extension. Supported by state appropriations; Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds. See full statement.

• In Georgia, an Extension initiative is strengthening connectivity and technology skills across three counties through partnerships with libraries, community centers and local governments. The effort delivered more than 700 devices, established new computer labs and WiFi access points and expanded six education programs, building digital skills, supporting workforce readiness and improving services for residents of all ages.
  Fort Valley State University Cooperative Extension Program. See full statement.

• In Indiana, Extension’s broadband efforts reached 91 counties through more than 920 events and presentations, engaging 8,300 youths, 51,000 adults and tens of thousands of stakeholders through email and social media outreach. Broadband speed and connectivity data collected through this work helped guide the allocation of $868 million for infrastructure and added 12,537 serviceable locations statewide, strengthening high-speed internet availability across communities.
  Purdue Extension. Supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds. See full statement.

• Extension professionals in Alabama delivered a computer training program that strengthened older adults’ cognitive function, communication with family and friends, and independence while reducing isolation experienced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, 216 participants increased their knowledge of computers and purchasing considerations, 191 gained essential 19 pandemic. As a result, 216 participants increased their knowledge of computers and purchasing considerations, 191 gained essential word processing skills and others improved online etiquette and mobile device use to manage daily tasks.
  Alabama Cooperative Extension System – Alabama A&M University. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.